Frequently Asked Questions
How does Reflexology differ from 'Conventional' Medicine?Reflexology is 'Cause' rather than 'Symptom'-based. In other words, were you to suffer regular headaches, we would seek to establish WHY you got the headaches and treat the cause rather than simply treat the pain.
Is Reflexology like Acupressure?
It works on the same principles, but whereas acupressure uses finger-pressure on reflex points throughout the body, Reflexology uses reflex points on the feet (and hands)
Can I get treated at home?
Yes! I am mobile and carry all necessary equipment with me so that you can be treated in the comfort and familiarity of your own home, although I work from the Gairloch Physiotherapy Clinic as well, should this be more convenient.
How will I feel during a treatment?
Generally patients feel very relaxed during a treatment, especially when they become used to it (which happens very quickly). Many say they feel almost 'meditative' and some simply fall asleep!
Some effects can be experienced during the treatment, however, and a patient will always be made aware of these. They might include tiredness/fatigue, stomach rumbles, thirst, a slight cough/dry throat, feeling either warmer or colder than usual and, occasionally a feeling of light headedness or slight nausea. These are all perfectly normal and are a positive sign that the body is responding to treatment.
Will I experience any effects after a treatment?
In the 24-48 hours after a treatment - particularly after a first, or early, treatment - you may continue to experience tiredness and fatigue and may need to visit the bathroom more often than usual! You may also have a slight headache as your body processes and excretes accumulated toxins. Again, these are positive reactions to your treatment and perfectly normal. On occasion - particularly if you are being treated for a deep-seated condition - you may experience what is known as a 'Healing Crisis'. This could happen after just one or two treatments or after ten, although it may not happen at all.
A 'Healing Crisis' is NOT a crisis in your healing but a crisis that is HEALING - another positive response that indicates that your body is responding to treatment. A Healing Crisis might present with cold or flu-like symptoms or render the patient more emotional than usual for a day or two but will, if experienced at all, soon pass!
How many treatments will I need?
In the same way that no two people are identical, so no two individuals will react in the same way to their treatment(s). After an initial consultation and discussion I would suggest a treatment plan tailored to the individual. Frequently, although not always, this would advise an initial course of six treatments, followed by another review based on progress achieved up to that point.
How often would treatments take place?
Treatments in the initial phase would normally be delivered at weekly or fortnightly intervals but intensive 'blocks' of treatment can be appropriate in some cases. If and when satisfactory progress has been achieved I might recommend 'top up' treatments. These may be monthly, bi-monthly or even quarterly depending on your circumstances. Remember, everyone is different!
Do I need to have a 'presenting condition' to benefit from Reflexology?
Absolutely not! Reflexology is a wonderfully relaxing and therapeutic therapy irrespective of whether or not you have a presenting condition. Indeed, many people use Reflexology for stress-busting relaxation alone.
Are there age limits on Reflexology treatments?
No! Babies love having their feet gently rubbed just as much as their great-grandparents do - and can derive just as benefit from it! Anyone under the age of sixteen, however, must have their parent/guardian's consent.
Are there any conditions that cannot be treated?
There are remarkably few. Reflexology tends to stimulate the body's own systems and could theoretically speed up the spread of certain forms of cancer - Lymphatic cancer, for example. Thus, treatment would not be given in these circumstances. That being said, Reflexologists often work with terminally ill patients to provide non drug-based pain relief and a generally improved sense of well-being.
Do I need permission from my Doctor?
There are a number of conditions for which GP consent would normally be sought before treatment commenced - high or low blood pressure, for example, or certain heart conditions. Equally, a newly diagnosed diabetic would be advised to refrain from treatment until their blood glucose levels had been stabilised. A stable diabetic could be treated but would be advised to have their levels checked more often than usual.
I must stress again; every patient is an individual and is treated and advised accordingly.
What if I have painful (eg: arthritic) feet?
If a patient has very painful feet - perhaps too painful to touch - then treatment can be carried out on the hands. Remember, the pain will usually be associated with some other condition, which will require treating, so don't let painful feet put you off.
What if I have ticklish feet?!
A very common question - and a real worry for many. I have treated umpteen people who tell me that they have ticklish feet, but I have yet to make anyone laugh during a treatment; at least, not by tickling their feet! I'm not sure whether this is down to pressure or technique but don't let it worry you!
Can you treat animals with Reflexology?
Yes - and I do! The principles of treatment are the same - as are the benefits - although the practicalities are diferent. Cats and dogs respond well (although cats can be a bit harder to win over!)and I have been treating one of our pet goats for two years since he suffered a stroke. As I have said many times, I would try to help any animal in need but might draw the line at a Pitbull with behavioural problems!
Can I buy a treatment for someone as a gift?(/B>
Yes! The gift of a Reflexology treatment makes an unusual and thoughtful present. I can provide vouchers for treatments with a 30 mile radius.
And Finally!..... How much will it cost?
A Reflexology treatment or voucher costs £30.
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